Virtual learning environment

Virtual learning environment

1. Concept

   • The virtual learning environment is a technological system developed for the management of online courses, whether they are free training courses or regular teaching.

2. Main characteristics

   • Does not require displacement of students and teachers
     • Because it is a totally virtual environment, teachers and students do not need to travel to participate in classes. Online classes must be previously recorded by the teacher and added to the platform, following the sequential logic of their course plan.
   • Offers schedule flexibility
     • The virtual learning environment can be accessed at any time, according to the interest and availability of the student. Thus, students are responsible for making their study schedules, which, despite requiring organization, quite the learning process
   • The teacher can do the classes anywhere
     • The teacher can record classes even at home or office. He only has to choose a neutral environment, with good lighting and that does not have noise so as not to interfere with the audio and, mainly, the content of the videos.
   • It is necessary to have Internet access to access the classes
     • A fundamental characteristic of this type of learning environment is that the student needs the Internet to participate in virtual classes. If the student is offline, she will not be able to access the content, just as a slow Internet can seriously delay her studies and cause her to need more time to complete them.
   • Not much financial investment required
     • To create the virtual classes, the teacher will only need a few tools that require a much lower financial investment: camera, microphone and video editing.
   • Questions and answers are made in discussion forums
     • Online learning environments have discussion forums. In this space, students can write their doubts, criticisms or suggestions and those in charge of the course can access the comments and respond appropriately.
   • Assessments are also performed virtually
     • The most common in online courses is the realization of tests virtually, that is, within the virtual learning environment. Teachers normally define a period for taking the tests, which can be hours or days, and students answer the questions through the VLE itself.
   • Presence in classes is marked according to the content attended
     • It allows the student to attend as many lessons per day and not be penalized if he cannot study for one or more days.
   • There is support for students and teachers
     • Another important detail is security when it comes to payment. Choosing a quality service ensures the student's access to paid classes and guarantees the teacher's payment.